
The Daily Aus Why more young Aussies are drinking less
6 snips
Jan 8, 2026 The hosts dive into the rise of the sober curiosity movement among young Australians, exploring why more are re-evaluating their drinking habits after the festive season. They discuss the global trend of reduced alcohol consumption and the booming alcohol-free market, predicted to reach $64.7 billion AUD by 2028. Personal stories add depth, including one woman's journey to full sobriety. They also share practical tips for navigating social situations while drinking less, highlighting a shift in social norms accepting non-drinkers.
AI Snips
Chapters
Books
Transcript
Episode notes
What 'Sober Curious' Really Means
- 'Sober curious' means making conscious choices about alcohol rather than full abstinence.
- The term originated from Ruby Warrington's 2018 book Sober Curious and frames mindful drinking as a spectrum.
Young Aussies Are Drinking Less
- Interest in reducing alcohol is rising in Australia with 44% wanting to drink less or stop in 2025.
- Abstinence among 18–24-year-olds rose from 13% in 2007 to 23% in 2022–23, showing clear generational change.
A Global Trend Among Young People
- Sober curiosity is a global social-media-fuelled trend affecting Gen Z and millennials.
- US data showed 65% of Gen Z and 57% of millennials planned to drink less for the 2025 new year.


